Fifty years ago, Operation Understanding helped bring recovery out of the shadows and into public view. Throughout 2026, Mobilize Recovery has carried that legacy forward—connecting people, challenging stigma, and showing what recovery looks like in communities across the country.

On Wednesday, December 9, starting at 12 PM ET / 9 AM PT, we’re bringing it all together for the Operation Understanding Marquee Virtual Event: a free, live, interactive gathering celebrating the recovery community and the possibilities we create together.

This special presentation will be broadcast exclusively for registered participants. Wherever you are, we invite you to join us.

Register now and save your seat

Honoring Elton John and David Furnish

During the celebration, Elton John and David Furnish will receive the Marty Mann Award, recognizing their long-term recovery, advocacy, and impact on public understanding.

Mobilize Recovery will also make a gift to the Elton John AIDS Foundation in their honor, extending Operation Understanding’s legacy of breaking stigma and saving lives.

It’s an opportunity to recognize the power of sharing our experiences—and the lasting impact of using our voices to help others.

An Extraordinary Lineup

The event will feature special guests and contributors whose stories and influence have helped change the way we understand recovery:

Together, these voices will help us celebrate recovery, challenge stigma, and recognize the community that makes this movement possible.

Connect, Learn, and Take Part

Alongside the special presentations, you’ll have opportunities to participate in interactive breakout sessions, trainings, and conversations with others across the recovery community.

You can connect with fellow mobilizers, learn alongside people working to strengthen recovery, and explore ways to carry this work forward in your own community.

Whether you’ve been involved throughout the year or are joining us for the first time, we hope you’ll be part of this gathering.